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Important Hostels Terms

Hostels began as locations for youths to escape to the countryside. Most of these inns are no longer limited to youths, though. They are cheap alternatives to many hotels. Many hostels can be searched for and reserved over the internet. Following are some terms you may find beneficial in planning your trip.

Backpackers – In many locations, backpackers refers to people who stay in hostels. They typically travel across a country, or multiple countries, with all of their belongings in a backpack. In some countries, such as Austria and New Zealand, backpackers can be an abbreviated form of backpackers’ hostels.

Bunkhouse – Bunkhouses are sometimes called bunk barns because they are often converted barns. These redesigned buildings can usually accommodate twelve to thirty five people. These buildings have sleeping quarters, toilets, showers, and cooking and dining areas. Sleeping quarters are often dormitory style, though some bunkhouses may offer a limited number of private rooms.

Bunk Room – Bunk rooms are cheap accommodations that are attached to pubs. They do not usually include eating or socializing areas.

Camping Barn – A camping barn, or stone tent, is usually just the shell of a living area. Visitors are often expected to bring everything from bedding, including a cushioned mat to serve as a mattress, to food preparation equipment, including a cooker and utensils. You will often find camping barns in rural locations. Some don't even have electricity.

Hostelling International – This international organization provides guidelines for pricing and quality. Thousands of hostels worldwide are members of this organization. Hostelling International can make the search for available lodging easier.

Independent Hostel – This term is often applied to hostels that are not members of an organization like Hostelling International. This status does not necessarily impact the quality of the hostel, though.

Hostels are similar to hotels in that they offer lodging accommodations for travelers. Hostels offer cheaper accommodations for guests traveling on a budget. These lodges are frequently used by students, backpackers, and other youth taking backpacking trips or enrolled in study aboard programs.
Although hostels rarely offer the luxuries of a hotel or motel, some of them do include breakfast and beds. Depending on the house, guests might share a room with several members of a group. Making reservations is recommended, especially in cities that are popular tourist destinations for backpackers.
There are various types of hostels that one can find while backpacking through Europe or traveling in the states. Some offer weekly rates that can help tourists stay within their budget while residing within a city. Many of them operate independently, so the specific rental rates can vary significantly.
When choosing cheap lodging for your trip, you might want to look for houses that fit your needs. For instance, those traveling through the woods might prefer to stay in a cabin or youth resort. Some hostels are members of larger associations that help tourists coordinate their travel arrangements. It is often a good idea to choose these locations for your vacation spot because it helps ensure that the accommodations fit your needs best.
One of the easiest ways to learn what types of rooms, cabins, and houses meet your budget requirements is to search the internet for affordable hostels in your intended city. This will let you compare your options to choose one that suits you best.